Sad, sad they leave their old village,
Far, far they go to the Chiao River.
Officials have an appointed time of arrival,
To flee from orders is to run afoul of capture.
The ruler is already rich in lands,
Expanding the frontier brings no gain!
Abandoned forever is the love of father, mother,
Sobbing, they march away with spears on their backs.
translated by Ronald Miao
Sad but beautiful. And I love the imagery here.
I’m glad you appreciate it.
nothing changes…
Unfortunately. We never learn.